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Some skin care routines require a stretch of 20 minutes or longer while other more simplified and stream lined versions need less than five minutes of your time. In fact, some days you may find that the 20 minute routine fits into your day while other more hectic days only allow for the shorter one. Regardless of how much time you spend, the effects you will receive are mainly based on the quality of the products that you are using.
Below we have discussed the most important steps to a complete skin care routine. Highlighted are the facial cleansers as these tend to be the crucial step of any regular skin care. Additionally, you will find two skin care routines - a long and a short version. Feel free to tinker with the steps until you find the perfect fit for you and your skin.
Quick Facial Rejuvenating Routine (can be completed in five minutes or less)
There are three very important steps to a cleansing routine. They are cleansing, toning and moisturizing.
Cleansing: By removing the built up layers of dirt and oil from your skin you will immediately begin to enhance the health of the underlying skin as it will be better able to breathe and can begin the repairing/rebuilding process. It is important to choose a facial cleanser that works for your skin type. Each is specifically designed for particular types such as oily, dry, normal or sensitive. (* See last section of this article for examples of high-quality facial cleansing products.)
Toning: After cleansing you will want to apply a toner which will improve the overall texture and tone of the skin. If your skin is oily you will never want to skip this step as toners are also noted for their astringent properties which help to dry any excess oil on the surface of the skin. If your skin is dry you may not need to use a toner or may simply decide to use a milder version such as rose-water toner.
Moisturizing: Applying a thin layer of water-based moisturizer will keep your skin smooth, refreshed and young looking. There are thousands of different moisturizers, be sure to choose a product that is made for your specific skin type.
In-Depth Facial Rejuvenating Routine (may take 20 minutes or more)
To the above Quick Facial Rejuvenating Routine you can add several more steps if you have time to pamper and enjoy.
Exfoliating: Removing the top layer of dead skin cells is a crucial step to revealing a younger, fresher layer of skin. If you don’t have time to do this each day, once a week will suffice. Use a scrub that contains micro particles and lightly rub it into the skin. Remove by washing with water. Weekly treatments will ensure soft skin all week.
Mask: Using a facial mask once a week will replenish and hydrate the cells of the skin. This extra moisture will improve the texture of the skin and leave it feeling nourished and radiant.
Examples of Skin Healthy Facial Cleansers
All-in-One Cleanser with Toner by MD Skincare is the perfect choice for women or men with little time to devote to skin care. A fast paced lifestyle doesn’t have to mean not taking care of your skin. Use this wonderful cleanser/toner product to gently lift away bacteria, dirt, oil and makeup. This cleansing formula can be used on any skin type.
Do you have dry skin? Dermalogica Essential Cleansing Solution combines the moisturizing properties of safflower oil, rosemary and hops for a nourishing, hydrating experience each time you wash your face. Creamy in texture, the citrus-like smell of lemons in this product will invigorate your olfactory system in the morning and leave you refreshed and relaxed each evening.
Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser by Pevonia Botanica combines a cleanser and an exfoliant into this newly formulated product. Especially useful for oily skin, it contains powerful skin cleansing herbs such as soapwort, horsechestnut and chamomile but is just as effective on all other skin types.
Credentials Glycolic Cleanser is a gentle exfoliating cleanser that contains 8.5% glycolic acid. It is an excellent facial cleanser choice for those with acne or other skin conditions as its unique ingredients make it both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial as well. Green tea and licorice can be found in this cleanser and it is recommended for all skin types.
For those with sensitive skin and conditions such as rosacea, try a gentle yet effective cleanser such as PCA Skin® Facial Wash. Not only does this product do everything that a cleanser normally does but it also leaves the face pH balanced, thus giving bacteria less of a chance of taking up residence in the pores. This facial wash has an aloe-vera base, which gives it cooling and soothing properties. This would be especially wonderful for washing irritated, itchy, or hot skin.
Article posted 10/18/2006.
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